By Albert Futukpor
Nwodua (N/R), Feb. 20, GNA – The Centre for Active Learning and Integrated Development (CALID) Ghana has inaugurated a new six-unit classroom block for the Nwodua R/C Basic School in the Kumbungu District of the Northern Region to help improve the educational environment for both pupils and teachers.
The fully furnished facility includes an ICT centre, staff common room, headteacher’s office, and sanitary facilities.
Mr Mohammed Awal Sumani Bapio, Executive Director of CALID, speaking at the handing-over ceremony, said assessments conducted by CALID revealed that pupils were previously studying in overcrowded and challenging conditions, aggravated by inadequate furniture.
He noted that although teachers were doing their best under difficult circumstances and pupils were eager to learn, the learning environment did not reflect the quality of education the children deserved, hence the intervention.
The facility, which cost approximately GHc1,417,843.10, was funded by the Japanese Embassy in Ghana through a grant assistance.
CALID contributed GH¢100,000 for the procurement of five computers and sanitation facilities, while the Kumbungu District Assembly committed to providing furniture.
The Ghana Education Service also facilitated the posting of qualified teachers to the school.
Professor Hamza Adam, Member of Parliament for Kumbungu, expressed appreciation to the Japanese government for its support and underscored the importance of education to the area’s development.
He said Kumbungu remained one of the deprived districts in the country with major infrastructural gaps, adding that authorities would continue collaborating with stakeholders to ensure adequate teachers and learning materials for the school.
Madam Yuze Haruko, Head of Political Affairs at the Japanese Embassy, who represented the Ambassador, reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to improving access to quality education in Ghana.
She said the project formed part of Japan’s grant assistance initiative aimed at creating conducive learning environments for children.
Mr Yakubu Imoro Kakpagu, Kumbungu District Chief Executive, who officially opened the facility, called on community members, school authorities, and other stakeholders to ensure the infrastructure was well maintained.
He reiterated the Assembly’s commitment to partnering with development agencies to improve social and educational infrastructure across the district.
Community members expressed joy and gratitude for the facility, which they believe will boost education and support community development in Nwodua and surrounding communities.
GNA
Edited by Eric K. Amoh / Lydia Kukua Asamoah